Unveiling the urban colonization of the Asian water monitor (Varanus salvator) across its distribution range using citizen science.

ABSTRACT:

Background

This study aims to investigate the urban colonization of the Asian water monitor (Varanus salvator) across its entire range of distribution, addressing the paucity of research on this species in urban ecosystems. The research spans the geographic range of the Asian water monitor, focusing on urbanized areas where the species accumulates more observations (Bangkok, Colombo, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore).

Methods

We conducted a systematic review to comprehensively assess the current knowledge of the species' presence in cities. Additionally, citizen science data from repositories like GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information facility ) were utilized to analyze the distribution patterns of V. salvator in urban environments. To elucidate urban distri

SUBMITTER: Luna A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11344998 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature